Understanding individual clinical issues within a societal context is fundamental to cultural competence and this awareness can be effectively integrated with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. This chapter reviews culturally aware ways of successfully engaging and preparing clients with an emphasis on Phases 1 and 2 of EMDR procedures. Clinicians are encouraged to develop a proactive clinical stance which both opens the door and follows the client’s lead in order to have important conversations that explore the cultural context of client experiences. Simultaneously, clinicians are asked to cultivate cultural humility and to reflect upon and modify any old habits or other barriers that interfere with cultural responsiveness. The chapter includes an extensive list of possible assessment questions and a cultural genogram tool. Also included are exercises to assist clients to develop cultural identity awareness and strengthen cultural resources. By embracing cultural attunement and at times providing psychosocial education, clinicians can increase the client’s curiosity about social and cultural issues, create language for better understanding and discussion, reduce isolation, and pave the way for productive therapy.